How do I apply a channel as a layer mask?

Forum|Forum|8 years ago
May 3, 2017
2 replies
11390 views

In my document I have a layer L and a channel C. How can I apply C as the layer mask for L? I want direct way to do it that does not go through an intermediate selection. Thanks!

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Correct answer rayek.elfin

create a blank, white mask on your layer.
make sure the mask is selected.
go to Image > Apply Image.
select the channel you want from the channel dropdown.
click ok.

rayek.elfinCorrect answer

Legend

create a blank, white mask on your layer.
make sure the mask is selected.
go to Image > Apply Image.
select the channel you want from the channel dropdown.
click ok.

D Fosse

Community Expert

An easier alternative is to copy the entire image, alt + click mask to target, and paste.

The problem with Apply Image is that you need two extra clicks in the dialog. If you need a luminosity mask on an adjustment layer, it's not even actionable, because you have to select the specific adjustment layer.

This is when laziness kicks in and you just load a luminosity selection instead (either ctrl + RGB channel, or easier, ctrl + alt + 2).

I must confess I often do this, and the bit depth be damned. With a modest adjustment it shouldn't make much of a difference, but more severe adjustments should really be with a 16 bit mask.

Trevor.Dennis

Community Expert

Ctrl click the alpha channel before applying the layer mask, or creating a new Adjustment Layer.

J

J IsnerAuthor

Inspiring

Thanks, but that goes through an intermediate selection. Selections drop the bit depth to 8-bit. Masks are 16-bit. I want everything to be done in 16 bit.

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